Computer-Assisted Gradual Correction of Charcot Foot Deformities: An In-Depth Evaluation of Stage One of a Planned Two-Stage Approach to Charcot Reconstruction.

The surgical treatment of Charcot foot is a widely debated topic, with issues ranging from when to operate to how to properly correct a deformity. Historically, correction of a severe deformity was attempted in 1 acute surgical procedure that frequently required open reduction and internal fixation through large incisions. This 1-time procedure would often result in complications including under- or overcorrection of the deformity, neurovascular injury, or incision dehiscence leading to possible soft-tissue infection or osteomyelitis. This retrospective case series aims to evaluate stage 1 of a planned 2-stage approach to Charcot deformity correction, consisting of gradual modification with the use of computer-assisted external fixation. The purpose of using gradual correction was to safely and accurately correct the Meary and calcaneal inclination angles, which were measured using preoperative and postoperative digital radiographs. The procedure was performed on 18 Charcot foot deformities in 18 patients. Each of the feet had a notably significant rocker bottom deformity and most contained an ulceration. Complete ulcer healing was noted in 100% (13/13) of feet with an ulcer, and a statistically significant corrected Meary's (p < .05) and calcaneal inclination angle (p < .05) to within a normal range was achieved in all deformity corrections with few postoperative problems and complications noted. Average patient follow-up was 39.6 months with a minimum of at least 12 months necessary for inclusion in the study. Therefore, gradual Charcot deformity correction through the use of computer-assisted hexapod external fixation, demonstrates safe, accurate, and reproducible characteristics that adequately prepares the lower extremity for stage 2, the implantation of rigid internal fixation.

Type IV Cell-Mediated Hypersensitivity Reaction Caused by Titanium Implant Following Double Calcaneal Osteotomy and First Metatarsal-Cuneiform Arthrodesis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Because of their inert character and desired biocompatibility, titanium implants have been universally accepted as safer alternatives to the conventional stainless steel orthopedic implants; however, recent emergence of type IV hypersensitivity reactions to titanium have included eczema, contact dermatitis, a prolonged febrile state, sterile osteonecrosis, and impaired fracture and wound healing. This report presents a patient with postoperative incision dehiscence and devascularization of surfaces in contact with titanium hardware after undergoing a double calcaneal osteotomy and a first metatarsal-cuneiform arthrodesis using titanium alloy implants. Titanium hypersensitivity was confirmed in this case through standard allergy patch testing by a board-certified immunologist. Complete healing occurred after diagnosis of the titanium allergy and hardware explant. To our knowledge, this is one of a few known allergies to titanium implants after foot and ankle surgery.